D’Navigators in the Spikers’ Turf Open Conference. –SPIKERS TURF PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — The Cignal HD Spikers and D’Navigators kicked off the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference semifinals with big wins for the early lead en route to the championship round.
The D’Navigators relied on Francis Saura’s 20-point effort to stun Marck Espejo and Criss Cross, 16-25, 27-25, 25-21, 25-17, on Wednesday at Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
Saura scored all his points from attacks to lead the D’Navigators’ collective effort. Edward Camposana delivered 12 points, while Deanne De Pedro added 10 points.
SCHEDULE: 2024 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference
Kim Dayandante anchored their offense with 16 excellent sets on top of five points, while Rick Adao protected the floor with 22 excellent receptions.
“We really prepared for them. We have nothing to lose but everything to gain from them,” said the D’Navigators coach Boyet Delmoro in Filipino.
Criss Cross, one of the early favorites to win it all in the league, fell to the brink of missing the finals despite Espejo’s 15-point effort, playing just two and a half sets.
Jude Garcia had 13 points and 19 excellent receptions. Chu Njigha contributed 12 points including four blocks, while Ysay Marasigan and Kim Malabunga were limited to six and four points, respectively.
READ: Spikers’ Turf: Francis Saura anchoring D’Navigators perfect start
Meanwhile, Bryan Bagunas poured in 21 points as Cignal staved off PGJC-Navy, 25-16, 29-27, 25-22, to join D’Navigators on top of the semis standings.
Bagunas drilled 18 attacks, two aces, and a block and had seven excellent receptions to lead the HD Spikers, who remained unbeaten in nine games including an 8-0 elimination round finish.
Jau Umandal had nine points. Lloyd Josafat and Bugaoan added seven points each with Cian Silang delivering 15 excellent sets for Cignal.
“All of the semifinalists are strong teams and capable of winning the championship so it’s all about who wants it more. Having more talented players doesn’t assure our success,” said Cignal coach Dexter Clamor in Filipino.
Navy banked on Greg Dolor, who had 12 points. Omar Lioc and Peter Quiel had 10 points apiece, as Joeven Dela Vega was limited to just six points.
Cignal and D’Navigators clash for a second semis win, while Criss Cross and Navy clash to stay alive.